International nursing conference showcases the role knowledge plays in improving patient care

TORONTO, Oct. 17 - About 400 nurses will gather in Toronto this week for an international conference that will highlight the knowledge they bring to the health-care system and the difference that knowledge makes for their patients and for shaping public opinion.

The three-day conference is being organized by the Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario (RNAO). The theme for this first-ever gathering is "Knowledge - The Power of Nursing." Nurses who represent a variety of care settings including acute, elder, primary and community health will attend along with nurses who specialize in clinical practice, research and education.

RNAO Associate Director, Karen Ellis-Scharfenberg says she's excited about bringing together nurses from across Canada and other countries such as Kenya, Cuba, Israel, Portugal, United Kingdom and the United States to share the evidence and best clinical practices that lead to better health outcomes.

The conference is being held in Toronto at the Intercontinental Hotel and the Metro Convention Centre, Oct. 18-20, 2010. Keynote speakers include:

The Story of Our Lives: Women Empower Women Lorrie Williams, BA, MA, MSM Councillor, City of New Westminster, BC President - Canadian Harambee Education Society

The Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario (RNAO) is the professional association representing registered nurses in Ontario. Since 1925, RNAO has lobbied for healthy public policy, promoted excellence in nursing practice, increased nurses' contribution to shaping the health-care system, and influenced decisions that affect nurses and the public they serve.